Beta Alp 4.0 Test 2024 - insider tip for enduro riders

For some, the Beta Alp 4.0 might be dismissed as a potential unicorn due to its lack of wind protection. However, it targets precisely the delicate balance between on-road and off-road riding. Contrary to what one might think, the "Alp" in its name doesn't refer to "alpine" or the Alps, but to "all purpose". During a two-day enduro tour with an emphasis on off-road riding in southern Slovenia, we put the Alp 4.0 to the test to see if it truly lives up to its name.

A review of the essential technical specifications of the Beta Alp 4.0 explains its unique position in the market. Originally introduced in the early 2000s with the Suzuki DR350 engine, a unit well-regarded among adventure riders, the Alp has been reimagined with a contemporary, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. This new engine, displacing 349 cc and delivering 35 hp at 9,500 rpm and 28 Nm of torque at 6,250 rpm, might not break records, but it certainly enhances performance. Sourced from Tayo in China, which is recognized here for the motorcycle brand Zontes, the engine marks a significant update. Nevertheless, the Beta remains an Italian product. Equipped with a 6-speed transmission, the Alp 4.0 can reach a top speed of 135 km/h as per Beta's data, facilitating comfortable cruising speeds. Moreover, with a curb weight of just 150 kg, it stands out as markedly lighter than other "light" touring enduros. The tire setup maintains traditional enduro sizing, featuring a 90/90-21 front and a 140/80-18 rear.

Before we tackled the more challenging terrains and during transitions on connecting roads, we spent some time on asphalt. On these stretches, the Beta Alp 4.0 proved to be a friendly and straightforward partner. Its seat height of 865 mm, paired with a slim profile and light weight, offers a significant advantage for riders with shorter legs compared to the typically taller and sometimes heavier enduro motorcycles. The riding posture is relaxed and upright, making it comfortable for most riders, although those over 1.90 m might find it a bit cramped on this rather small bike. At my height of 1.85 m, I found it quite comfortable and enjoyed the easy-going nature of the ride. This ease is largely due to the engine, which is smooth and well-mannered when responding to throttle inputs. Like many modern single-cylinder engines, the Alp's engine requires a bit of revving to wake up but then delivers sufficient power for quick acceleration. The gear ratios are notably long, which is necessary to reach a touring-appropriate top speed, yet the engine stays mid-range in revs even above 100 km/h without feeling strained. Moreover, it's possible to ride smoothly in 5th gear at lower speeds through towns without any lurching. The engine's quiet, pleasant sound, the absence of annoying vibrations, and a smoothly operating gearbox further enhance the riding experience.

On rough terrain, however, it becomes apparent that the suspension system isn't the most refined. With 185 mm of travel at the front and 195 mm at the rear, the telescopic fork and shock absorber provide ample suspension travel, yet the components aren't quick or precise enough to smoothly handle minor bumps. Nevertheless, the fixed suspension settings offer sufficient damping to maintain stability at all times. Even with the standard, robust VRubber tires from Thailand, the ride remains impressively smooth. This is true even though we only inflated the tires to 1.2 bar for off-road riding. Riding the Beta is never dramatic, but it effortlessly handles all aspects of conventional road riding.

What's it like off the beaten track? While the rest of the group rides on conventional enduro motorcycles, we avoid steep inclines and challenging off-road sections. I'm accompanied by my father and his friends, all seasoned riders in their sixties. Our focus is more on navigating narrow trails and appreciating the landscape than on tackling exhausting climbs. However, occasionally, we encounter special challenges as we search for the right trail. Over two days, we traversed numerous gravel paths, dual-track forest lanes, and forest roads, as well as some single-track trails, overgrown wooden pathways, and rocky ascents on the Beta Alp 4.0. I'd characterize our journey as more of an enduro trek, though the Alp was certainly pushed beyond its usual limits.

The compact and accessible ergonomics of the Alp enhance off-road riding comfort. Hardenduro motorcycles are also slim and lightweight, yet significantly taller. On the Alp, the occasional need to touch the ground with your foot in challenging terrain is more manageable. Additionally, the standing posture on the Beta is effective and surprisingly dynamic. Due to its lower height, the arms naturally extend downwards to the lower handlebars, prompting the upper body to lean forward similarly to Hardenduros. Once the rubber inserts are removed, the footpegs provide ample grip; the knees can clamp around the slim midsection of the Beta when needed, and the modest 11-liter tank offers considerable space at the front.

This allows you to navigate confidently across unpaved terrain without feeling out of place. The engine plays a significant role in this sensation. While it may not be spectacular, it still delivers ample power in the mid-rev range. On gravel paths, you can toy with the traction, allowing the rear to slide with precise throttle control, bringing a wide smile beneath your helmet. In steeper, looser conditions, easing off the throttle slightly ensures adequate pressure, and if needed, you can finely adjust it with the smooth, precise clutch. Due to the extended gear ratios, you often find yourself in first or second gear, but this poses no issue, and the engine adeptly handles brief throttle bursts. With slight weight shifting and a flick of the wrist, the front wheel lifts, making it thrilling to ride over rough trails. The robust setup of the chassis handles such maneuvers and minor jumps well, even though the Beta Alp isn't specifically designed for such tasks. It seldom bounces, maintaining stability even during harsh impacts. On rocky inclines, however, you might notice the previously mentioned, somewhat coarse response to smaller bumps, causing a bit of jostling.

The brakes are also not the best in class. While the braking systems are sourced from Nissin, they could offer better control during intense deceleration. This isn't much of an issue during casual rides. The foot brake lever is conveniently accessible when standing, and the brakes stay responsive under light pressure. However, the brake calipers start to grip very firmly once more force is applied. It requires some adaptation on loose surfaces to skillfully and intentionally lock the rear wheel.

To make this feasible, the ABS must be turned off. Besides the two riding modes, Street and Offroad, the sleek TFT display, and the LED lighting elements, this is the sole significant electronic feature on the Beta Alp 4.0. Regrettably, it's also the only real drawback when riding on unpaved surfaces. To turn off the ABS, you need to press the ABS button on the handlebars for a few seconds while in the off-road mode. Like many other brands, the ABS reactivates when the ignition or engine is turned off. Unfortunately, the ABS also resets if the engine stalls. When climbing and under strain, the engine can easily stall due to sufficient pressure. However, when descending on loose terrain with a brake that isn't perfectly controllable, it's too easy to press the rear brake too hard and fail to pull the clutch lever quickly enough before the single-cylinder engine with its low flywheel mass stalls. Since the ABS can only be deactivated while stationary, you must stop and press the ABS button for several seconds again before continuing. Sometimes, I've had to do this multiple times consecutively, which can be quite frustrating. Generally, the ABS reset is merely an annoyance, but it can become precarious on downhill paths.

During the two-day event in Slovenia, the Beta Alp 4.0 endured quite a bit. Despite numerous jumps, rugged gravel paths, and severe impacts, the bike experienced only two minor issues. The TFT display froze during a particularly hot and dusty segment, but this was quickly resolved by cycling the ignition. Additionally, two screws on the exhaust cover came loosea common occurrence even on the finest enduro motorcycles. Overall, the Beta Alp 4.0 proved exceptionally resilient, a notable achievement given its price bracket.

If you're planning to use the Beta Alp 4.0 for enduro touring, especially for multi-day trips, you'll need to think about how to carry your gear. The sole official accessory from Beta for the Alp 4.0 is a luggage rack, which can be paired with a top case, transforming it into a convenient urban commuter. With a permissible payload of 172 kg, there's certainly ample capacity for some luggage or a passenger, though space may be limited.

The Beta Alp 4.0 is priced at €6,250 in Austria, €6,130 in Germany, and CHF 6,990 in Switzerland, making it competitively priced against its rivals. For instance, the Honda CRF300L is available for €6,190 in Austria, yet it offers less power and displacement with its 286 cc engine producing 27 hp. The CRF300L Rally, which comes with a fairing, is significantly pricier at €7,500. This trend of higher costs and weights also applies to the eagerly awaited CFMOTO 450 MT and the Royal Enfield Himalayan, both of which are heavier and more expensive than the Alp 4.0, despite being among the lightest touring enduros.

Due to its lack of wind protection and somewhat compact size, the Beta Alp 4.0 might not be the first choice for long adventure rides for many. However, I find it to be a particularly appealing option for those interested in enduro hiking. If steep climbs aren't on your agenda, there's no need for a Hardenduro. Similarly, if you're not looking to travel hundreds of kilometers at once, a full-blown touring enduro isn't necessary either. For shorter rides across easy to moderate terrains, the Beta Alp 4.0 provides straightforward and enjoyable riding experiences, and it handles confidently on asphalt too. It's not without its flaws, but at this price point, perfection isn't a reasonable expectation. The savings you make when choosing this bike over others could be well-spent on fantastic trips or minor tweaks to the Alp. Overall, my advice is simple: don't overlook the Beta Alp 4.0!